PNEUMOCOCCAL IMMUNIZATION STARTS

Pneumococcal vaccine has been added to Saskatchewan's routine, publicly funded childhood immunization program, as of April 1st, 2005. It is the third new vaccine introduced in the province over a six-month period.

"Adding these new vaccines has meant the most significant change to the province's childhood immunization program in many years, a change that will benefit our children and families for years to come," Health Minister John Nilson said. "Public health professionals have done a tremendous job in the timely introduction of the three new vaccines -- meningococcal, varicella and, now, pneumococcal."

Pneumococcal vaccine prevents infections from pneumococcal bacteria that can cause bloodstream and middle ear infections, meningitis and pneumonia.

It is estimated that 11,000 infants will benefit from the pneumococcal vaccine in the first year of the program. Eligibility is based on date of birth. Infants born on or after February 1st, 2005 will receive their first dose of vaccine at two months of age; high-risk children up to age five, including those with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or heart and lung diseases, also continue to be eligible.

"Pneumococcal vaccine is highly effective, and provides us with a new tool for improving the health of Saskatchewan children," Saskatchewan Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Ross Findlater said. "The vaccine offers protection against seven strains of the invasive bacterial infection streptococcus pneumonia. These seven strains are responsible for most pneumococcal disease in young children."

Meningococcal vaccine was introduced in October 2004 and varicella vaccine was introduced in January 2005. All three of the new vaccines will be given at the same time as the current routine childhood vaccinations. Public health nurses administer the immunizations at child health clinics or schools. For more information, families can call their local public health office.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083